The definition of pain disorders, sometimes described as chronic pain, have changed over time and continue to vary. Some common definitions are pain that has gone on for at least 3 months or pain that continues despite no identifiable tissue damage. Chronic pain can develop after immediate pain from an injury does not completely improve. Conditions like functional abdominal pain or chronic headaches have an unknown cause and may develop without any history of symptoms. Lastly, underlying medical conditions, like arthritis, can result in ongoing pain. It is important to recognize that pain is important for survival, informing us that something is wrong and that we need to stop and seek help. Pain is not only biological; two people can experience the exact same injury yet describe a different type or degree of pain. In chronic pain, pain information is sent to and from the brain when it is not helpful or when there is no danger. Chronic pain impacts functioning by limiting activity and impacting focus, making school or work challenging. Isolation can result, as individuals may not feel up to completing daily activities. Mood can decrease while anxiety can increase. Understanding the ways that biological, psychological, and social factors work together to maintain pain is an important step in managing pain.
